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Published on: December 9, 2014
A case of cerebral toxoplasmosis: "Eccentric and concentric sign" in MRI
Nur Izzati Syahirah Awang Senik1,2, Sanihah Abdul Halim3,2,4, Nur Asma Sapiai1,2,4
1Department of Radiology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Central nervous system (CNS) toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection caused by the intracellular protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This organism typically causes disease in immunocompromised patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We reported a case of a 52-year-old woman with neurology symptoms and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain shows both eccentric and concentric target signs, which are typical signs in a patient with cerebral toxoplasmosis but rarely displayed in the same lesion. The MRI played a crucial role in diagnosing the patient and distinguishing CNS diseases commonly found in HIV patients. Our objective is to discuss the imaging findings that aided in the patient's diagnosis.
Insights
Central nervous system toxoplasmosis, an opportunistic infection, rarely presents with both eccentric and concentric target signs on brain MRI. This case highlights MRI
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection caused by *Toxoplasma gondii*.
- It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, especially those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Observation:
- A 52-year-old woman presented with neurological symptoms.
- Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed both eccentric and concentric target signs within the same lesion.
Findings:
- The simultaneous presence of eccentric and concentric target signs on MRI is a rare finding in cerebral toxoplasmosis.
- These specific imaging findings were crucial for diagnosing CNS toxoplasmosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diagnostic utility of MRI in identifying CNS toxoplasmosis.
- Recognizing these rare imaging patterns aids in differentiating toxoplasmosis from other CNS diseases in HIV patients.
